While concrete cracks are common, that doesn’t mean they should be ignored. But if you allow them to linger, the consequences can snowball into larger issues, compromising the safety and longevity of your space.
The good news? Well, the good news is that they are easily repairable. Here’s how to do it properly.
What Causes Concrete Cracks?
There are several reasons why concrete cracks can form, but knowing the cause can help you prevent them in the future:
- Curing Shrinkage: Concrete shrinks as it dries, causing small cracks on the surface.
- Soil Movement: As the soil changes under the concrete, cracks can be created as the surface readjusts.
- Overloading: Too much weight from vehicles or machinery can cause stress on concrete and lead to cracks.
- Extreme Weather: Concrete can be expanded and contracted by freeze-thaw cycles or too much heat, causing cracks.
- Improper Mixing: If the concrete mix is not done properly, it can lead to weak, brittle material that is prone to cracking.
Knowing why this is the case allows you to take informed steps towards restoration and prevention.
How to Repair Cracks in Concrete?
While tiny fissures might seem innocent, they can lead to serious damage down the road if left untreated. Here’s how to repair the small ones, and the really big cracks:
Small Cracks
- Clear the crack out: Use something like a wire brush or vacuum to clean dirt and grime.
- Fill any cracks: Use a good-quality, flexible concrete filler (or a structural epoxy for crack repair and for more permanent cracks).
- Spread and dry: With a putty knife, level off the filler and let it cure.
Large Cracks
- Widen crack: Chisel and hammer for added bond.
- Be prepared: It should be dust-free where the crack is.
- Concrete patch angler: A concrete backpacker will ensure the patching compound adheres firmly to the crack.
- Level out the surface: Fill bricks with a mixture of mortar or cement and water, and then allow it to dry thoroughly.
In cases of deep cracks, strengthening with a bonding agent, such as carbon fiber retrofitting, provides a stronger, more long-lasting solution.
Preventing Future Cracks
Repairing cracks is one thing, but preventing them is better. Here’s what you can do:
- Use good concrete: Bad mixes mean bad structures.
- Moisture control: Water is the hidden weakness of concrete in the long term, so waterproofing materials should be used to limit water penetration.
- Add expansion joints: These adjust for natural concrete movement.
- Seal the concrete: A good sealer protects against water, chemicals, and wear. For added protection, you can’t go wrong with polyurethane waterproofing.
FAQs
When should I worry about cracks in concrete?
If that crack is wider than 1/4 inch, is ongoing, or is leading to uneven surfaces, it’s time to act quickly.
How can you tell if a crack in a concrete is serious?
Deep cracks, fast-spreading cracks, or ones that definitely make the structure unstable are serious. When in doubt, check with a professional.
Does concrete settle and crack?
Yes, particularly in new concrete. Settlement cracks can be minimized with proper curing and reinforcement. Therefore, if your external concrete requires extra strength, you can go for bitumen waterproofing as it will give the substance more stability.
Say Goodbye from Cracks with Sealbond!
Sealbond offers permanent concrete repairs that are super bonding, waterproof, and durable. Cracks ruining your space? Contact us now and we will help you!
